The documentary is maid out of 5 episodes, each almost an hour long. After 5h of watching time you would expect to actually understand very much about the club, but you have no idea at all. As for the information provided, the club is nothing more than a bunch of men wanting to spend time together, but instead of a pub, they do it in other rooms with a lot of ceremonies. There is no info how they gain ranks, why they are so exited about those ranks, what type of secrets each rank gets exposed to. Nothing was really said.
Based on the information provided, there is nothing going on. And that is also how much interesting the documentary is: Nothing going on in there.
13 Reviews
Inside the freemasons? Not
thebate619 September 2018
Actually the whole documentary does not explain literally anything. Its full of general facts degrees, rituals but nothing going deep into the lodges. Not even some history over the centuries. You finish it and you are like "so what do they believe in" They all speak about such general values and ethics charity or being equal or whatever, its extremely general and not accurate. We all believe in that- what is the difference with masons??? Documentary did not explain anything at all. They say all can join. Thats such a lie. - also did you notice no woman is seen NOWHERE in the documentary.
Interesting but too long
GlennE30 January 2019
Outside The Freemaons
annabdm28 February 2020
This documantary's aims were supposed to provide information and something original in an objective way. However, it seemed highly subjective, shallow and it didn't dig deeper at all. At the end of the documentary you will realize it was just a waste of time. They have some rituals? okay. They believe in fraternity , charity ect ? Okay. But it does not answer anything. It is far from being truthful. It looked as if they were just doing an ad to urge people to join them. It was also creepy a bit because in most of the episodes they talk about how much they are ordinary sweet human beings living in a positive pink-hued world.
Tip of the Iceberg
fidelislux20 September 2018
This was a brave move by UGLE and in this age of instant gratification, will most likely illicit the "boring" response. But the more curious seeker may find that there's a philosophical journey to be had there, amidst the mirth and fellowship of a few good men. Hint - avoid the boring ones only interested in rank and title, and seek out the characters such as the Widows Son's bikers and the master of the new Football Lodge.
Anyone can join - but you have to ask first. That is the first stage of your journey. Wake up, do some work! Not everything can be bought or Googled. I think the reason UGLE left out the history and more esoteric side, is because these are personal interpretations that each Mason will discover along the way. Believe it or not, there is no definitive answer on the origins of the Craft.
My own historical version goes something like this.... On the immortality of the soul, Pythagorus and Thales were the first philosophers to move away from mysticism and towards abstract reasoning supported by facts, and sometimes illustrated by number. Masonry requires a belief in a Supreme Being (typically inferring immortality of the soul), but it also demands we learn about the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science. Hence it could be considered an early form of Science & Spirit. Furthermore, it is fiercely supportive of free will and independence. Later on, the Templars were behind Magna Carta, and after their excommunication they supported Robert de Brus in the Declaration of Arboath.
Much later on, the early Scottish Freemasons such as Robert Moray were instrumental in forming the Royal College (of science). Alchemy had become chemistry, conjuring had become mathematics, and astrology had become astronomy. Rosicrucianism ran with the hermetic side and the Illuminati ran with the pure science side. Both died out fairly quickly yet they live on in the minds of many dreamers and conspiracy theorists. Freemasonry chose the middle ground and thrived as the landed gentry, with time on their hands, could combine traditional club atmosphere with philosophical inquiry.
Much later on, American Independence (via the Templar's philosophical successor, the Freemasons) was modelled on the same spirit of egalite, fraternite and liberte. Indeed, Washington, Franklin and later Teddy Roosevelt are all descended from the same Templar ancestors as HM The Queen, Duke of Lancaster.
Unfortunately, like many ancient institutions, Freemasonry has become tired and over-run by those only interested in title and rank, with almost no interesting skid marks in their personal driveways. It still carries a lot of very respected tradition, especially from its early military days as a colonial force. And for those interested in more than the fellowship, social and charitable aspects, one can still discover some secrets, realising that of course the journey is a personal one.
Masonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. As the experience is so personal, showing everything upfront would ruin it completely. Once again, any man (or woman) so interested will wake up and do the work, only realising later the subtle improvements in character and self-confidence. Audi, Vide, Tace.... Hear everything, see everything, and yet remain silent.
Anyone can join - but you have to ask first. That is the first stage of your journey. Wake up, do some work! Not everything can be bought or Googled. I think the reason UGLE left out the history and more esoteric side, is because these are personal interpretations that each Mason will discover along the way. Believe it or not, there is no definitive answer on the origins of the Craft.
My own historical version goes something like this.... On the immortality of the soul, Pythagorus and Thales were the first philosophers to move away from mysticism and towards abstract reasoning supported by facts, and sometimes illustrated by number. Masonry requires a belief in a Supreme Being (typically inferring immortality of the soul), but it also demands we learn about the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science. Hence it could be considered an early form of Science & Spirit. Furthermore, it is fiercely supportive of free will and independence. Later on, the Templars were behind Magna Carta, and after their excommunication they supported Robert de Brus in the Declaration of Arboath.
Much later on, the early Scottish Freemasons such as Robert Moray were instrumental in forming the Royal College (of science). Alchemy had become chemistry, conjuring had become mathematics, and astrology had become astronomy. Rosicrucianism ran with the hermetic side and the Illuminati ran with the pure science side. Both died out fairly quickly yet they live on in the minds of many dreamers and conspiracy theorists. Freemasonry chose the middle ground and thrived as the landed gentry, with time on their hands, could combine traditional club atmosphere with philosophical inquiry.
Much later on, American Independence (via the Templar's philosophical successor, the Freemasons) was modelled on the same spirit of egalite, fraternite and liberte. Indeed, Washington, Franklin and later Teddy Roosevelt are all descended from the same Templar ancestors as HM The Queen, Duke of Lancaster.
Unfortunately, like many ancient institutions, Freemasonry has become tired and over-run by those only interested in title and rank, with almost no interesting skid marks in their personal driveways. It still carries a lot of very respected tradition, especially from its early military days as a colonial force. And for those interested in more than the fellowship, social and charitable aspects, one can still discover some secrets, realising that of course the journey is a personal one.
Masonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. As the experience is so personal, showing everything upfront would ruin it completely. Once again, any man (or woman) so interested will wake up and do the work, only realising later the subtle improvements in character and self-confidence. Audi, Vide, Tace.... Hear everything, see everything, and yet remain silent.
Stale Pale Males
AJCGriffiths13 June 2020
I had to turn this off after half way through the first episode as it kept repeating itself with the information it was putting out. I feel like, if you've watched the first episode then you've watched them all. The series gives you a very high overview of the Freemasons, which may be useful if you haven't heard anything about the Freemasons before or don't know what they are.
It also feels like the series was sponsored by the Freemasons as it doesn't delve into both sides of Freemasonry and only shows what they want you to see. I was hoping this would change my views on Freemasonry or at least better educate me on the matter. It didn't do either and only served as an advertisement for the Freemasons.
At the end of the day, it's evident that the Freemasons serve as a fake front where they claim to be about bettering themselves as human beings but is actually a sexist organisation that doesn't care about all walks of life, which provides individuals an opportunity into the pale, stale, male circle-jerk.
It also feels like the series was sponsored by the Freemasons as it doesn't delve into both sides of Freemasonry and only shows what they want you to see. I was hoping this would change my views on Freemasonry or at least better educate me on the matter. It didn't do either and only served as an advertisement for the Freemasons.
At the end of the day, it's evident that the Freemasons serve as a fake front where they claim to be about bettering themselves as human beings but is actually a sexist organisation that doesn't care about all walks of life, which provides individuals an opportunity into the pale, stale, male circle-jerk.
As a freemason myself
ShaunV19901 October 2018
I have been a Freemason for several years. So I watched this documentary pure out of curiosity. It's not often you come across an honest depiction of what Freemasonry is all about. This documentary does something none other has ever done right, and it's actually there where they go completely wrong. When finishing this documentary you will have a pretty good feeling what it is to be a Freemason. But you will not know why you would even want to become a Freemason. They lack in providing you with some background history. I get it, this is not what the director was after. But being a Freemason is much more than what you see in this documentary. Sadly enough you cannot explain it by footage. It's something you have to experience. I would recommend conspiracy theorists to watch this documentary. So they finally can get a right picture about it. But for those who take an interest in Freemasonry, remember there is so much more to it.
the final nail in the coffin
ljubac-841-6035607 October 2018
Shocking Expose of Freemasonry
poetcomic118 September 2018
I have suspected all manner of things about Freemasonry but never this. It is shockingly and excruciatingly BORING. I have just watched one episode and it is as interesting, say, as having someone explain to you in detail all the symbols on his masonic apron. I would rather watch puppy and baby videos.
A respectful overview of Freemasonry as it is currently practiced
philiptdelong18 September 2018
This documentary looks at Freemasonry as a hobby or sub-culture by examining the often-asked question, "Just what do Freemasons do?" The answers in this case are specific to the United Grand Lodge of England, the oldest and most respected Grand Lodge, but will be recognizable to Masons throughout the world. In the interests of full disclosure, I am an American Freemason, and while there are significant differences in practice, it is not so different that I couldn't find myself nodding my head in agreement with the Freemasons featured in the program.
It's a somewhat idealized look at Freemasonry. Those looking for controversy or conspiracy theories will be disappointed. Enough ritual is shown to give a flavor of the words used, but no secrets are shown. There is practically nothing of the history of Freemasonry spoken of. Instead, we hear from current Freemasons at various levels trying to explain what draws them to the fraternity.
Freemasonry is basically a scheme of self-improvement whereby its members try to live up to a set of ideals regarding morality and charity-- what it takes to be a really good man. They believe by associating together they can support each other in this laudable pursuit. In England, it has come under suspicion for being self-serving-- the idea that Masons will cover up the misdeeds of their brothers is widespread. The secrecy surrounding its rituals are thought to be training for this conspiracy. The documentary attempts to dispel this theory by showing these men to be rather pleasant, ordinary, and genuine, and hardly the type to look for undue advantage in business or the public sphere.
So we see a series of men and their somewhat bemused wives and partners as they transition into various roles in their lodges. There is no great drama involved, but the situations are absolutely real.
After seeing the overly breathless conspiracy documentaries that have come out, claiming to expose the secrets of the order, this film gives a healthy dose of realism to the discussion. If it defers too much to what the United Grand Lodge of England wants to present, it nevertheless gives the viewer the idea of why Freemasonry is so important in some men's lives. Hint: it's not in order to take over the world. It's to improve oneself and hopefully, in some small way, the larger society by doing what a single individual can do. The mysterious effects of Freemasonry, demonstrated by over 300 years of practice, are something to be applauded, not feared.
It's a somewhat idealized look at Freemasonry. Those looking for controversy or conspiracy theories will be disappointed. Enough ritual is shown to give a flavor of the words used, but no secrets are shown. There is practically nothing of the history of Freemasonry spoken of. Instead, we hear from current Freemasons at various levels trying to explain what draws them to the fraternity.
Freemasonry is basically a scheme of self-improvement whereby its members try to live up to a set of ideals regarding morality and charity-- what it takes to be a really good man. They believe by associating together they can support each other in this laudable pursuit. In England, it has come under suspicion for being self-serving-- the idea that Masons will cover up the misdeeds of their brothers is widespread. The secrecy surrounding its rituals are thought to be training for this conspiracy. The documentary attempts to dispel this theory by showing these men to be rather pleasant, ordinary, and genuine, and hardly the type to look for undue advantage in business or the public sphere.
So we see a series of men and their somewhat bemused wives and partners as they transition into various roles in their lodges. There is no great drama involved, but the situations are absolutely real.
After seeing the overly breathless conspiracy documentaries that have come out, claiming to expose the secrets of the order, this film gives a healthy dose of realism to the discussion. If it defers too much to what the United Grand Lodge of England wants to present, it nevertheless gives the viewer the idea of why Freemasonry is so important in some men's lives. Hint: it's not in order to take over the world. It's to improve oneself and hopefully, in some small way, the larger society by doing what a single individual can do. The mysterious effects of Freemasonry, demonstrated by over 300 years of practice, are something to be applauded, not feared.
I liked it from a Fraternity perspective
nickebelhack26 September 2018
As a member of a college fraternity that said it takes a lot after masonic tradition it was cool to see similarities and differences between us. I liked it a lot, and I was glad to see a Freemason documentary not focus on the BS conspiracy theories and instead look at reasons people join and what they have benefited from in their personal lives
Very honest, informative and educational
jeansl4 October 2018
Hello, l think this series is terrific. May father was a Mason, my friend's father was a Lodge Master, not sure of that title in, Australia. l think, as a woman, as a Buddhist/Christian and also an ordained sangha nun. l found the ritual quite beautiful, the kindness and the values presented by the Masons wonderful. Every religion has their secret moments, even things which are unknown. l see no problem with with all Male Lodges. Women also have separate Groups they attend, and as someone rightly pointed out, the Wives no where their partners are. If younger men were more involved in an Organisation such this maybe our Society would have better values. l rated this at 10 because l saw many men being kind to each other. Jeanette Slaney/Kelsang Genyin New Kadampa Tradition.ps l
Excellent personal look at the lives of Freemasons
theregulators-094261 February 2021
In a world where hatred, avarice and deceit are all too common, a viewing of the Netflix series, Inside the Freemasons offers a breath of fresh air while dispelling the myths and misconception about modern Masonic activities. The first important aspect of this documentary is the ability to highlight the fraternal bonds of brotherhood that serve as a catalyst for the community service which is vitally important to Masonic life. Aired in five episodes that highlight and follow the lives of several freemasons, viewers will have a ringside seat into their personal lives and learn how freemasonry impacts them in a positive way. Many of the personal events are quite poignant, including that of Peter, a freemason who lost his wife to a tragic, sudden illness and found strength through his Masonic connections. Viewers will also meet Dave, a Gulf War veteran who felt adrift after leaving the service, only to find renewed strength and purpose after becoming a freemason. His heartfelt journey includes details of his ascension as a Lodge officer. Featuring rare footage of some lodge activities, the point is made succinctly that freemasons are not a "secret society, but rather a society with secrets." Those secrets remain intact and are not revealed here, but what is revealed is the positive community impact, ongoing tireless charitable work and dedication to their community. Highly recommended.
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